Overview

The Edifier G35 Gaming Headset is Edifier's entry into the budget USB gaming space, arriving in late 2024 with a straightforward pitch: virtual surround sound and a detachable mic without a steep price tag. Edifier has a solid reputation in audio, and the G35 carries that credibility into more affordable territory. It connects via USB and packs a 50mm hybrid driver that sets it apart from cheaper dynamic-only options in this category. One thing to flag upfront — this headset does not work with Xbox. PS4, PC, Mac, and laptop users are covered, but Xbox owners should look elsewhere before getting attached to the idea.

Features & Benefits

The headset's 7.1 virtual surround sound is delivered through Edifier's companion software rather than physical hardware — which matters because the effect depends entirely on your willingness to install and configure the app. For those who do, the payoff includes EQ presets, environment effects, mic boost, and even a magic voice feature that alters how you sound mid-session. The detachable mic is omnidirectional with noise cancellation built in, though at this price tier, don't expect studio-grade isolation — it handles casual background noise reasonably well. RGB lighting rounds out the package with over a million color options, and the whole setup works over USB or a 3.5mm connection depending on your device.

Best For

The G35 makes most sense for first-time headset upgraders — people coming off a basic stereo pair who want to feel an immediate improvement without committing to a high-end purchase. PC and PS4 gamers get the most out of it, especially those who enjoy tinkering with audio settings through software. Streamers and casual content creators will appreciate having a detachable mic built in, since it removes the need for a separate purchase. It's also a practical pick for anyone building a budget gaming setup who wants RGB in the mix. Just don't expect it to satisfy audiophiles or competitive players who demand precise positional audio — that crowd needs a higher price bracket.

User Feedback

With over 500 ratings and a 4.1-star average, this USB gaming headset lands in mostly positive territory, and the most consistent praise centers on sound quality for the price — buyers regularly note it punches above what they expected. The RGB lighting gets compliments more often than not, with most finding it a fun addition rather than a distraction. On the other side, some users report comfort issues during longer sessions, citing pressure on the ears after an hour or two. A handful of reviews mention the mic picks up more ambient sound than advertised, and a few flag minor software glitches on first install. Build quality earns mixed marks — it feels plastic-light in hand, which some accept and others do not.

Pros

  • The 50mm hybrid driver delivers noticeably fuller sound than most headsets at this price point.
  • Virtual 7.1 surround adds real depth in open-world and immersive games when configured through the software.
  • The detachable mic removes cleanly when not needed, keeping the setup versatile.
  • Edifier's companion software offers EQ presets and environment effects that budget rivals rarely include.
  • Compatible with PC, Mac, PS4, and most laptops with no extra adapters required.
  • RGB lighting is vibrant and software-controlled, making it easy to match a desk theme.
  • Both USB and 3.5mm input options give users flexibility across different devices.
  • Unboxing experience is solid, with mic sponge and user manual included in a tidy package.
  • Buyers consistently rate the sound quality as punching above its weight class.

Cons

  • All-plastic build feels fragile under pressure and shows wear relatively quickly with daily use.
  • Passive noise isolation is weak in louder environments, letting in more ambient sound than expected.
  • The virtual surround effect disappears entirely without the companion app installed — no offline fallback.
  • Microphone noise cancellation is inconsistent, with keyboard and fan noise frequently bleeding through.
  • Ear pressure builds noticeably after 60 to 90 minutes, making long sessions uncomfortable for some users.
  • Software setup can be frustrating, with reported compatibility issues on Windows 11 requiring manual fixes.
  • The 3.5mm input mode loses software-enhanced features, limiting it to basic stereo only.
  • At roughly 1.68 pounds, the weight starts to register during extended late-night gaming sessions.

Ratings

The Edifier G35 Gaming Headset scores below are generated by AI after analyzing verified buyer reviews from multiple global markets, with spam, bot-submitted, and incentivized feedback actively filtered out. This headset sits firmly in the budget tier, and the ratings reflect that honestly — strengths and frustrations alike. Where this USB gaming headset punches above its weight, the scores show it; where it falls short, they show that too.

Sound Quality
74%
26%
Most buyers are genuinely surprised by how full the audio sounds for the asking price. The 50mm hybrid driver delivers decent low-end presence during action-heavy gaming sessions, and stereo separation is cleaner than what many users expected coming from cheaper options.
The overall sound profile leans toward bass-heavy, which can muddy mid-range detail in competitive shooters where audio clarity matters. Some users note a slight artificial quality to the highs, particularly when listening to music or voice chat for extended periods.
7.1 Virtual Surround
61%
39%
When the Edifier software is properly configured, a fair number of users report a noticeable improvement in spatial awareness during open-world games. The environment effect presets add some depth that flat stereo simply cannot replicate at this price point.
The surround effect is entirely software-dependent, meaning it disappears the moment you use the headset without the app installed. Several buyers found the effect unconvincing or hollow compared to true multi-driver surround headsets, and a few disabled it entirely after experimenting.
Microphone Performance
63%
37%
For casual gaming sessions, voice chats, and Discord calls, teammates generally report hearing the user clearly enough without major complaints. The detachable design is a practical plus — when the mic is not needed, removing it keeps things tidy.
Background noise suppression is inconsistent; keyboard clicks, fan hum, and ambient room noise still bleed through more than the noise-cancellation marketing implies. Buyers using it for streaming or recording found the audio thin and prone to picking up unwanted room ambience.
Comfort & Fit
58%
42%
Initial fit feels adequate for most users, and the over-ear design does a reasonable job of sitting passively on the head during shorter sessions. The clamping force is not aggressive, which lighter-headed users tend to appreciate.
After roughly 60 to 90 minutes of continuous wear, multiple reviewers flag noticeable ear pressure from the circular cushions, which are relatively shallow. Users with larger heads or glasses report discomfort sooner, and the 1.68-pound weight starts to register on longer gaming nights.
Build Quality
56%
44%
The headset feels structurally intact out of the box, and the hinges move smoothly without creaking during initial use. For first-time buyers stepping up from a very cheap headset, the construction feels like a reasonable step up.
The all-plastic build is the most consistently mentioned concern in negative reviews — it flexes perceptibly when adjusted and feels fragile under any real stress. A handful of buyers reported cracking near the headband joints within the first few months of regular daily use.
RGB Lighting
81%
19%
The lighting is genuinely vibrant and the color range is wide enough to match most desk setups. Buyers building a themed gaming station found the RGB a legitimate visual complement rather than an afterthought, and software control over colors works reliably.
A small portion of buyers consider the RGB purely cosmetic and prefer the ability to disable it entirely to save on any marginal power draw. On a few units, users reported one side flickering inconsistently after weeks of use.
Software & App Experience
59%
41%
The Edifier companion software genuinely adds value for users who invest time in it — EQ customization, the magic voice filter, and surround presets give the headset more personality than its price suggests. Power users appreciate having this level of control without spending more.
Installation friction is a recurring complaint: the software can be finicky on first setup, and a handful of Windows 11 users reported compatibility issues requiring manual driver updates. Those who just want plug-and-play audio will find the software dependency more annoying than helpful.
Cable & Connectivity
77%
23%
The USB connection is stable and recognized immediately on every PC and PS4 tested by reviewers, with no driver conflicts in most cases. Having both USB and a 3.5mm option gives users flexibility when switching between devices quickly.
The cable is on the stiffer side, which limits how freely it moves on a desktop and can tug slightly during active sessions. There is no braided or tangle-resistant finish, so longer-term cable durability is a mild concern based on a few reports.
Noise Isolation (Passive)
62%
38%
The over-ear design provides a decent physical barrier against moderate background sounds like TV noise or quiet office chatter. Users in relatively calm environments found it sufficient to stay focused during gaming.
In louder environments — busy households, shared workspaces, or rooms with mechanical keyboards — the passive isolation falls short. The ear cups do not create a particularly tight seal, so ambient sound leaks in more than some buyers anticipated.
Compatibility
83%
The G35 works straight out of the box on PC, Mac, PS4, and most laptops — a legitimately broad range for a wired USB headset at this tier. PS4 users in particular appreciate a USB option that does not require additional adapters.
Xbox compatibility is a hard no, which catches some buyers off guard despite the product listing noting it. A few users also reported that the 3.5mm input does not carry full feature support, limiting it to basic stereo without software enhancements.
Value for Money
79%
21%
Relative to what buyers pay, the feature list — virtual surround, detachable mic, RGB, software suite — represents strong bang for the buck in the budget gaming segment. Many reviewers explicitly state it outperforms similarly priced competitors from less established brands.
The value proposition softens when comfort and build quality are factored in over time. Buyers who push toward this headset expecting near-mid-range performance are occasionally disappointed, and a few felt a modest additional spend would have been worth it in hindsight.
Packaging & Unboxing
72%
28%
The box is well-organized and the included accessories — mic sponge and user manual — are neatly presented. First impressions from unboxing are generally positive, which matters for buyers purchasing this as a gift.
The manual is minimal and does not walk users through the software setup in any meaningful detail. A few buyers felt the packaging slightly overpromised on the product's visual premium compared to what they held in their hands.
Aesthetic Design
76%
24%
The G35 has a clean, purposeful look that fits the gaming peripheral category without being garish. The black colorway is versatile and the RGB integration looks intentional rather than bolted on as an afterthought.
The all-plastic finish shows fingerprints and minor scuffs relatively quickly, which dulls the initial look after regular handling. Users who prefer a matte or rubberized texture for both grip and aesthetics may find the glossy sections underwhelming.

Suitable for:

The Edifier G35 Gaming Headset is a strong fit for PC and PS4 gamers who want a noticeable audio upgrade without committing to a mid-range or premium budget. If you are coming from a basic stereo headset and have never experienced virtual surround sound, the jump in perceived immersion can feel significant — especially in story-driven or open-world games where environmental audio matters. Casual streamers and content creators who need a functional mic built in will appreciate not having to buy a separate microphone just to go live or hop on Discord. The software customization layer also makes this a good match for tinkerers who enjoy dialing in EQ settings and experimenting with sound profiles. Mac and laptop users who need a reliable USB option with broad out-of-the-box compatibility will find the G35 fits neatly into their setup. For anyone building their first dedicated gaming station on a tight budget, the RGB lighting and clean aesthetic add real visual value without requiring a separate investment.

Not suitable for:

The Edifier G35 Gaming Headset is the wrong choice for Xbox users — compatibility simply does not exist, and no workaround changes that. Competitive gamers who rely on precise positional audio to track footsteps or directional cues in fast-paced shooters will likely find the virtual surround unconvincing compared to higher-end options with dedicated hardware processing. Anyone expecting professional-grade microphone quality for podcasting, streaming, or voice-over work will be let down — the mic handles casual calls adequately, but it is not built for polished audio production. Users who wear headsets for three or more hours at a stretch may find the comfort level starts to deteriorate, particularly if they wear glasses or have larger heads. The all-plastic construction also makes this a poor fit for buyers who want something built to last through years of heavy daily use, as the long-term durability record raises legitimate concerns. If you are already in a mid-range headset and expecting a meaningful upgrade in audio fidelity, this USB gaming headset is unlikely to impress.

Specifications

  • Model: Edifier G35, variant designation G35_2, released October 2024.
  • Driver Size: 50mm hybrid driver per ear cup, designed to produce a wider soundstage than standard dynamic drivers at this price tier.
  • Surround Sound: 7.1 virtual surround sound delivered entirely through Edifier's companion software, not through physical multi-driver hardware.
  • Connection: Primary connection via USB; secondary input via 3.5mm jack for devices without USB audio support.
  • Microphone: Detachable omnidirectional condenser mic with built-in noise cancellation and an included foam windscreen sponge.
  • RGB Lighting: Onboard RGB lighting supports up to 1.68 million color combinations, configurable through the Edifier software suite.
  • Compatibility: Works with PC, Mac, PS4, laptops, and desktops; explicitly not compatible with Xbox consoles.
  • Bluetooth: No wireless or Bluetooth capability; this is a fully wired headset only.
  • Weight: Approximately 0.76 kg (1.68 lbs) including the headband and ear cups, without the detachable microphone attached.
  • Material: Primary construction is plastic throughout, covering the headband, ear cup shells, and adjustment sliders.
  • Ear Form: Over-ear design with circular ear cups intended to fully surround the ear rather than rest on it.
  • Software: Edifier companion app provides access to virtual speaker EQ, environment effect presets, mic boost, magic voice, surround max, and microphone echo controls.
  • Package Contents: Box includes the headset, detachable microphone, microphone foam sponge, and a printed user manual.
  • Package Dimensions: Retail packaging measures 11.38 x 10.75 x 4.8 inches, suitable for standard shelf or gift presentation.
  • Interface: Hardware interface is USB; secondary input device interface supports 3.5mm jack connectivity.
  • Control Method: In-line or on-unit remote control for basic functions; full feature access requires the desktop software application.
  • Best Sellers Rank: Ranked #467 in Amazon Computer Headsets category as of late 2024, with 523 verified ratings averaging 4.1 out of 5 stars.

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FAQ

No, it does not. The G35 is explicitly incompatible with Xbox consoles, and there is no adapter workaround that enables full functionality. If you play on Xbox, you will need to look at a different headset entirely.

Basic audio playback works plug-and-play over USB without installing anything. However, the 7.1 virtual surround sound, EQ settings, RGB customization, and mic controls all require Edifier's companion software to be installed on your PC or Mac. Without the app, you get stereo audio and default RGB behavior only.

It is a software-based virtual surround effect, not true hardware surround. This means the headset has one driver per ear — the surround impression is created digitally by the Edifier app. For casual gaming it adds some perceived depth, but competitive players who need pinpoint positional audio should temper their expectations.

It handles moderate background noise reasonably well — things like a quiet fan or light ambient sound are reduced noticeably. That said, it is an omnidirectional mic at a budget price point, so loud keyboards, nearby conversations, or HVAC noise can still bleed through. It is solid for Discord and casual streaming, but not ideal for professional recordings.

Yes, it connects directly to the PS4 via USB with no adapters needed. Audio works out of the box, though the full software suite for surround and EQ customization is only available when connected to a PC or Mac running the Edifier app.

Yes, the mic detaches cleanly from the ear cup. Without it attached, the headset looks like a standard pair of gaming headphones, which is convenient if you want to use it for music or media without the mic in the way.

Comfort holds up reasonably well in the first hour or so, but multiple users report ear pressure building after roughly 60 to 90 minutes, especially with the circular ear cups. If you regularly game for three or more hours in a single sitting, you may want to factor that in. Users who wear glasses tend to feel discomfort sooner due to how the cups press against the frame arms.

Yes, the Edifier software gives you full control over the RGB, including the ability to turn it off completely. If you prefer a clean, understated look, disabling the lights is straightforward through the app settings.

The headset connects and produces audio on a MacBook via USB without issues. Edifier does offer a macOS version of their companion software, though some users have noted it is less feature-complete than the Windows version, so you may not have access to every EQ or effect option depending on your macOS version.

The all-plastic construction is the most common concern raised in buyer reviews. Under normal careful daily use it holds together fine, but it is not built to take rough handling. A small number of users have reported cracking near the headband adjustment joints after several months of regular use. Treat it with reasonable care and it should last, but it is not a headset built for durability above all else.